Eric said he was unsure about joining the soap when offered the role nearly two years ago.

He added: “Initially, I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing getting into Fair City but I have to say it is probably the best thing I’ve ever done in terms of enjoyment, and because you’re surrounded by such great actors.

“People like to slag off Fair City but there is a hell of a lot of talent here – really, really good actors.

“And you are working under a time restraint. You don’t get an awful lot of time to nail a scene like you would in a film.